Vanguard University Alumni Nicole Suydam ‘95 has been named one of OC Metro’s 40 Under 40 for her work as Vice President of Development at Goodwill of Orange County.

Suydam, 37, has helped Goodwill of Orange County increase charitable contributions for the past two years despite a recession that has resulted in much decline in the area of philanthropy. Because of Suydam’s hard work and innovative ideas, she led the way in changing the fundraising strategy to focus on contributions from individuals and focusing on raising more community awareness through The Real Goodwill, the nonprofit’s one-hour introductory tour.

For the duration of her eight years as vice president, Suydam has tripled major gift revenue, expanded Goodwill’s estate and legacy giving program, and led the $7 million fundraising campaign to create the Goodwill Fitness Center in order to allow people with disabilities to actively stay healthy.

Suydam was also recognized by OC Metro Magazine as one of “The Hottest 25 People in Orange County” and she has been featured by the Nonprofit Times as one of the nation’s “Top 10 Nonprofit Fundraisers Under the Age of 40.” Vanguard University awarded her the Outstanding Young Professional Award in 2006.

Suydam is also currently a member of the Orange County Business Council, where she works with members looking to hire employees with disabilities and utilizes Goodwill’s business services.

“I enjoy leading teams and empowering others to discover their best talents and abilities,” Suydam said in a recent interview with OC Metro.

For further information on Suydam, or to read the OC Metro article on the 40 under 40, please visit here.